I had watched Don Hein on television for many years before I started coming into contact with him every morning.

It was late 1982 and working the morning news shift at Indianapolis radio station WNDE.  Don had taken on the extra gig of handling sports on the radio morning show in addition to his TV work.  So, I had the chance, for a few months, to talk with Mr. Hein each weekday morning.

Let’s just say I gained some inside scoop on what was happening behind the scenes of Indy area sports.  It was an eye-opening experience.

He was clearly not particularly diplomatic in his dealings with the executive-types at WTHR television.  I think his immediate boss often ran interference for him and Don, although dropped once by the TV station, and brought back by popular demand, managed to have a long and storied career covering the sports scene in Indianapolis.

I was saddened to learn of Don Hein’s death at the age of 85.  Although I did not know him well, I always enjoyed the times we were able to talk.  He was very easy to talk with and was quite personable.  Let’s just say not all television celebrities are that way.

Allow me to express my sincerest sympathies to his family.  Don Hein made a mark on Indy area media.  I am proud to have known him just a little.